Trump says held off on new Iran attack, upbeat for agreement
US President Donald Trump announced he had planned a military attack on Iran but decided to hold off due to potential diplomatic progress. Gulf Arab allies urged him to pause the attack as negotiations were reportedly underway to secure a deal regarding Iran's nuclear program. Trump expressed optimism about reaching an agreement that would prevent further military action, while Iran continues to demand the release of frozen assets and the lifting of sanctions.
- ▪Trump initially planned a military assault on Iran but was persuaded to delay it by Gulf Arab allies.
- ▪He indicated that negotiations were ongoing and expressed hope for a deal that would prevent military action.
- ▪Iran has been demanding the release of its frozen assets and the lifting of sanctions as part of the negotiations.
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US President Donald Trump speaks during a healthcare affordability event in the South Court Auditorium of the White House in Washington, DC, on May 18, 2026. KENT NISHIMURA / AFP US President Donald Trump said he was planning a major new assault on Iran on Tuesday, May 19, but held off as he saw hope for securing a so far elusive agreement to end the war. Trump said that he stopped his purported attack plan at the urging of Gulf Arab allies, which Iran has threatened with reciprocal attacks if the United States and Israel end a nearly six-week ceasefire. Trump, who had indefinitely extended the truce and made clear he wants to exit a war that has proven to be a political liability, said he had prepared a new attack for Tuesday after Iran refused his outlines of a deal.
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